What is DMIS?

The developmental model of intercultural sensitivity (DMIS) was created by Dr. Milton Bennett. This model was created as a basic outline to explain the reactions that people have to cultural differences. The stages of DMIS is a continuum that ranges from ethnocentric to highly ethnorelative (Cushner, McClelland, & Safford, 2012, p. 155). The DMIS was designed by the theory that cultural awareness is accompanied by improved cognitive sophistication (Cushner, McClelland, & Safford, 2012, p.155). This model is acceptable for both children and adults as they progress through cross-cultural sensitivity.

The DMIS consists of 6 different stages. These stages include denial, defense, minimization, acceptance, adaptation, and integration (Cushner, McClelland, & Safford, 2012). Each stage describes a cognitive structure that is communicated through attitudes and behaviors (Bennett, 2011). Teachers can use the DMIS to facilitate learning by recognizing the cognitive stage a student is at and helping the student progress into the next stage.